Causes of TMJ Injuries

Your lower jaw moves on temporomandibular joints, or TMJs. When these become injured it can create a host of problems commonly referred to as simply TMJ. But what causes damage to these joints?

Injury to the chin or jaw

Poor jaw alignment

Missing teeth

Improperly or partially erupted wisdom teeth

Nighttime teeth grinding

Arthritis

Clenching, either chronically or during stress

What You Can Do at Home

There are some things you can do at home to lessen TMJ pain. Using ice packs, avoiding extreme movements of the jaw (chewing gum, yawning widely, singing loudly) and sticking to soft foods can help. Learning relaxation techniques can also be beneficial, so you hold less stress in your jaw.

How A Dentist Can Help

While pain relievers can temporarily address many of the pains associated with TMJ, in many cases dental therapy can provide more lasting relief. In some cases treatment may be as simple as using a night guard to prevent nighttime grinding. Splints can also be used to stabilize the jaw. However, some patients may require more extensive measures be taken.

About Your Lake Forest Cosmetic Dentist:

Aside from providing dependable family, general, and restorative dentistry services to our community, Dr. James Fondriest also holds respected academic appointments at the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL, and the Spear Institute in Scottsdale, AZ, and he is an adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Florida Dental School. At Lake Forest Dental Arts, Dr. Fondriest combines his impressive array of experience with modern technology and caring, compassionate, knowledgeable staff, and we proudly serve patients from West Forest Lake, Kennedy, Lake Bluff, Skokie, Junction, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 847-234-0517.